Rivlin: War Time No Time for Inauguration Party

Incoming President Reuven Rivlin is the latest to cancel a high-profile event due to Operation Protective Edge.

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Yaakov Levi, 20/07/14 17:21

Reuven Rivlin

Flash 90

After several international events and concerts by top singing stars have been canceled, it was the turn of Israel's incoming president, Reuven Rivlin, to cancel a major inauguration event that had been planned to celebrate his ascension to the office of President.

Rivlin is set to take over the reins of Israel's presidency from Shimon Peres on Thursday, but a party and celebration that had been planned to mark the moment have been canceled. Instead, Rivlin will be inaugurated in a quiet ceremony. In a statement, Rivlin and Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein said that at this time, with thousands of IDF soldiers fighting vicious terrorists in Gaza, was no time for a party.

The changing of the guard ceremony in the Knesset courtyard, also set for Thursday, will take place, but will not be broadcast on television. A swearing-in ceremony in the Knesset, however, will be held.

Over the weekend, singing star Paul Anka said that he was canceling two concerts that had been set to take place this week. Anka said that he regretted having to do so, but that the move was necessary in order to ensure the security of his fans. He asked ticket-holders to hold on to their tickets, if possible, promising to come to Israel as soon as possible and “put on the best show” Israelis have ever seen.